Texas House of Representatives

House Representative

Stucky, Lynn

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 03/30/2017

House Appropriations Committee Votes Out Fiscally Responsible and Transparent Budget

AUSTIN- The House Committee on Appropriations approved the House budget and supplemental budget for the next two years. The approved budget and supplemental budget will now move to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

The House has exercised leadership in crafting a conservative, responsible budget that spends $106.8 billion in available revenue. Despite revenue challenges, and very significant population and inflation growth, the House biennium budget is $1 billion less than the current budget.

Although cuts were made, the House budget still makes significant investments in critical priorities. Our proposal includes nearly $1.5 billion in new money for public education, while also reducing recapture (better known as Robin Hood). We are addressing the foster care crisis in Texas by investing $433 million of additional funds to child protective services. In addition, the House is dedicating $62.6 million in new funds to eliminate waiting lists for community mental health services across the state and maintains our commitment to border security funding.

The House budget is fully transparent and protects the state’s investment in transportation while maintaining our long-standing commitment to using dedicated funds for their rightful purpose.

"The Appropriations Committee has shown great leadership during a very difficult budget cycle. While we have had to tighten our belts across the board, the House budget prioritizes public education, CPS, mental health, & transparency," Representative Stucky said.